1. Parsons as a Symbolic Interactionist: A Comparison of Action and Interaction Theory
- Author
-
Jonathan H. Turner
- Subjects
Interaction theory ,Theory building ,Sociology and Political Science ,media_common.quotation_subject ,Metaphysics ,Symbolic interactionism ,Epistemology ,Action theory (sociology) ,Personality ,Sociology ,Social organization ,Social psychology ,media_common ,Social theory - Abstract
Action theory's substantive image of social organization, theory building strategy, and methodological tenets are compared with those of interactionism. Despite polemics to the contrary, action and interaction concepts denote a similar image of social organization and personality. As is argued, the principle difference between the two perspectives revolves around the issue of the most appropriate theory building and methodological strategy. The ontological implications of this fact are examined and found not to justify the continued partitioning of social theory into antagonistic metaphysical camps.
- Published
- 1974